Opals and Jade Course

Opals

From the origins of the name, to their formation within the earth's crust, to the mistaken belief that they are purveyors of bad luck to the optical phenomenon that produces such a mesmerizing and tantalizing array of spectral colours and patterns, opal is indeed a 'stone of mystery'.

Jade

Jade, on the other hand, is not only desired and valued for its beauty but also for the unique and venerable position it has held in the cultural fabric of many great and storied civilizations, from the Chinese empire, where it was once considered its most valuable commodity, to the pre-Columbian civilizations of the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec of Central America (Mesoamerica), who valued it more than

gold, to the Maoris of New Zealand.

Topics Covered Include

Topics covered in the course include their physical and optical properties, geological formation, crystal systems, chemical composition, varieties and classification, cause of colour, absorption spectra, common inclusions, fluorescence, mining, grading criteria, methods of synthesis, gem identification, common treatments and enhancements, cleaning and care instructions, and pricing.